RedHawks to Host Akron for Saturday Afternoon Showdown

Miami University is set to host the University of Akron for a key Mid-American Conference (MAC) game on Saturday, January 6, at 3:30 p.m. The RedHawks enter this matchup with an impressive 14-0 record, marking their best start in program history.

Miami’s Strong Performance

The Red and White have excelled in several statistical categories this season. They rank first nationally in effective field goal percentage (64.3%), field goal percentage (54.6%), and three-point percentage (43.6%).

• 5th in scoring offense (94.9 points per game)
• 11th in scoring margin (23.0 points)
• 14th in free throw percentage (77.8%)
• 22nd in bench points per game (35.36)
• 29th in defensive rebounds per game (28.50)
• 35th in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.64)
• 37th in assists per game (18.1)

About Akron Zips

The Zips possess a 10-3 overall record, including a 1-0 mark in MAC play. They are currently on a two-game winning streak. Last season, Akron concluded their campaign with a notable 28-7 record, and they were ranked first in the MAC Preseason Men’s Basketball Poll for the 2025-26 season.

Under the guidance of head coach John Groce, now in his ninth season, Akron has key players making an impact. Senior guard Tavari Johnson leads the Zips, averaging 20.5 points and 5.1 assists per game. Other standout players include:

• Amani Lyles – 6.5 rebounds per game
• Evan Mahaffey – Contributes 1.7 steals per game
• Shammah Scott and Chabi Barre – Notable defensive presence

Historical Matchup

This game will mark the 74th meeting between Miami and Akron. The Zips lead the all-time series with 40 wins to Miami’s 33. At home in Oxford, the RedHawks have a record of 23-13 against Akron. Miami is currently on a three-game losing streak in this series, with their last win occurring on January 27, 2024.

What’s Next for Miami?

Following this game, Miami will face Western Michigan on Tuesday, January 9, at 7 p.m.

Family Legacy

A notable connection in this matchup is Evan Mahaffey, who is the son of Jamie Mahaffey, a former Miami University player from 1992 to 1995.

Team Rankings

The RedHawks received six votes in the recent Associated Press Top 25 men’s college basketball poll. They ranked third on the Mid-Major Top 25® Poll as of December 29, 2025, marking them as one of six undefeated Division I teams.

Home Court Advantage

At home, Miami is riding a 22-game win streak. They are close to breaking their own record of 23 consecutive home wins set between 1996 and 1998. The last home game resulted in a dominant 135-81 victory over Milligan University.

Recent Games

In their latest match, Miami outlasted Bowling Green with a 93-83 victory on January 3. In that game, Brant Byers and Peter Suder each scored 17 points, helping to secure the win.

Key Player Stats

Several RedHawks have excelled this season, with seven players scoring 20 or more points in a single game. Noteworthy contributions have come from:

• Almar Atlason
• Brant Byers
• Eian Elmer
• Evan Ipsaro
• Trey Perry
• Peter Suder
• Kyle Waltz

With their current shooting percentages of 54.6% from the field, 43.9% from three-point range, and 77.8% from the free-throw line, the RedHawks are demonstrating a well-rounded offensive strategy as they prepare for their showdown against Akron.